Can cannabis help with migraines?

Migraines can be debilitating. They disrupt daily life, affect work, and make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. With more than 190,000 migraine attacks occurring every day across the UK, according to Brain Research UK, the need for effective treatment options has never been greater. If you've tried conventional treatments without success, you might be wondering whether cannabis oil for migraines could offer an alternative.

The good news is, research is beginning to validate medical marijuana for migraines as a possibility. A 2020 study published in The Journal of Pain found that inhaled cannabis reduced self-reported headache and migraine severity by approximately 50%. Whilst more research is needed, findings like these suggest that medical cannabis may offer an alternative for some patients.

In this blog, we explain what migraines are, what causes them, and whether medically prescribed cannabis might help manage symptoms. We also explain exactly how Medicann can support patients through the legal prescription process.

What is a migraine​?

It’s a common misconception that a migraine is simply a bad headache. In reality, it is a complex neurological condition that brings within a range of different symptoms and affects millions of people across the UK. The pain is often intense and throbbing, usually affecting one side of the head, though it can occur on both sides.

Migraines are different from tension headaches or other common headache types. They involve changes in the brain that trigger a cascade of symptoms, often leaving people unable to continue with their day. Some people experience migraines occasionally, whilst others deal with them several times a month.

What are the symptoms of migraine​?

Migraine symptoms vary from person to person, but they typically include:

• Severe, pulsing or throbbing pain, often on one side of the head
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smell
• Nausea and vomiting
• Visual disturbances, such as flashing lights or blind spots (known as aura)
• Difficulty concentrating or speaking
• Dizziness or feeling faint.

These symptoms can last for hours or even days, and many people need to lie down in a dark, quiet room until the migraine passes. Some individuals experience warning signs before a migraine begins, such as a ‘warning aura’, mood changes, food cravings, or increased thirst.

What causes migraine headaches​?

The exact cause of migraines isn't fully understood, but research suggests they involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Changes in brain activity, particularly involving the trigeminal nerve and blood vessels in the brain, are thought to play a key role.

Common migraine triggers include:

• Stress or anxiety
• Hormonal changes, particularly in women
• Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns
• Certain foods or drinks, such as chocolate, cheese, caffeine, or alcohol
• Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells
• Dehydration
• Weather changes.

Identifying personal triggers can help reduce the frequency of migraines, though this isn't always straightforward. Many people find that their migraines occur without an obvious cause.

How long do migraines last​?

Migraines typically last between four and 72 hours if left untreated. Some people experience shorter episodes, whilst others endure migraines that persist for days. The severity and duration can vary significantly, even for the same person across different episodes.

After the main migraine subsides, many people feel exhausted, drained, or mentally foggy for a day or two. This phase is sometimes called the "migraine hangover" or postdrome.

How to treat migraine​

Treatment for migraines usually focuses on two approaches: preventing attacks and managing symptoms when they occur.

Preventative treatments may include lifestyle changes, identifying and avoiding triggers, and in some cases, prescription medications designed to reduce the frequency or severity of migraines. These might include beta-blockers, antidepressants, or anti-seizure medications.

For managing symptoms during a migraine, common treatments include:

• Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Prescription medications such as triptans, which narrow blood vessels and reduce inflammation
• Anti-sickness medicines
• Rest in a dark, quiet environment.

However, not everyone responds well to these treatments. Some people find that conventional medications lose effectiveness over time, or they experience unpleasant side effects. This is where some patients begin exploring alternative options, including medical cannabis.

Can cannabis help migraines​?

There is growing interest in whether cbd oil or medical cannabis for migraines could help people who regularly suffer. Research in this area is still developing, but early findings are encouraging for some patients.

A 2022 review published in Systematic Reviews highlights evidence supporting the use of medical cannabis for treating migraine. The research suggests that medical cannabis may help reduce the frequency and duration of migraines, as well as lower the severity of common symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. This system plays a role in regulating pain, inflammation, and other processes that may be involved in migraine development. Some studies suggest that cannabinoids may help modulate pain signals and reduce inflammation, though more clinical research is needed to fully understand these effects.

Medical cannabis is not a guaranteed solution for everyone, and it's important to have realistic expectations. However, for patients who haven't found relief through conventional treatments, it may be worth discussing with a specialist.

Medicann offers a clear pathway for patients exploring medical cannabis for chronic pain conditions, including migraines. The process begins with a simple online eligibility check, followed by a consultation with a GMC-registered specialist doctor. If medical cannabis is deemed appropriate, Medicann arranges a legal prescription for a licensed or unlicensed cannabis-based medicine, supplied through approved medical channels.

Ongoing monitoring and follow-up support are included, helping patients understand how to use their treatment safely and effectively. This specialist-guided approach ensures that patients can access medical cannabis legally and confidently, with professional oversight throughout.

If you've been struggling with migraines and conventional treatments haven't worked, medical cannabis might be worth exploring. To find out more or to check if you are eligible, get in touch with Medicann today.